Happy 11th Birthday, Troy!

Eleven!  Wow, where does time go?  It seems like it was just yesterday I was holding you for the first time, hearing your newborn cry, and watching you sleep.  Wasn't it just last week that we attended your Kindergarten graduation?  It was sometime last month that you learned how to ride your bike, right?  While I know that the times I just mentioned (such as you being born, you graduating from Kindergarten, and your first bike ride), were many years ago, it seems like these times just happened.  You're teaching me to cherish each and every day, each and every moment, because it won't be long that you will be graduating high school, and it will be your 11th birthday party that will seem was just yesterday.
When I asked you what you wanted for your birthday cake, it didn't surprise me when you said you wanted a picture of you and your dog, Bo, on your cake.  You are very close to that dog, and him having a birthday that is right after yours and us getting him when he was just a puppy makes you even closer!


With each passing year I see how much you remind me of my dad, your Papaw Robert.  I am so happy that you have some resemblance of him.  You are slow at a lot of what you do...you never get in a hurry to do anything, that is how he was.  While some may think that being slow is a downfall, it most definitely is not, because this gives you the chance to appreciate every bit of life that the Lord gives you instead of rushing through it.
I also see so much of your dad in you as you are getting older.  You appreciate the simple things and you're not too hard to please with most things.  You're not one to become anxious over a lot, and you see the best in everything and everyone, and that's such great qualities to have.
Most importantly, I see the person you are becoming as an individual.  You are getting stronger, and you are  already almost as tall as me.  I have no doubt in another few years, probably around the time you enter into high school, I will have to look up at you, instead of look down to you when we are talking.  I'm also able to see the big heart you have for others and your appreciation for life and everything the Lord blesses you with.  Keep growing strong, not only in this world, but for the Lord and you will never go wrong.
Happy Birthday, my dear boy!  I love you!